Citation read out on the night of the awards
“Kat started off in the construction space by buying and renovating houses. After 6 homes in 4 years she decided to kick off a carpentry apprenticeship. Kat is also studying part time towards a Diploma of Construction Management with the Open Polytechnic.
Kat negotiated a 4-day work week as part of her apprenticeship. This impressed the judges and should be an example/inspiration that flexibility can and does exist in our industry. Her referee advised that she is “super proactive in structuring how to progress her apprenticeship” and that “the possibilities are endless for her”.
Kat originally worked in art fundraising and as such brings a unique perspective to construction which the judges, and I’m sure many of you, will appreciate. She describes building as taking perspectives from individual artists (in this case the designers, engineers and tradespeople) to create a masterpiece.
Kat aims to give back to the industry through her Instagram page @wellingtontradielady (go give her a follow). Where she is doing her part to make women in the trades more visible and accessible. It also provides a space for her to encourage other women considering construction as an option and to support others already in the industry. Kat also volunteers for Inspiring the Future where representatives from different industries go into schools to speak with young people about future career opportunities. While this has been limited because of covid Kat hopes to be back inspiring the students of Wellington soon.
Congratulations Kat. "
Post awards question:
What has winning this award meant to you?
"Winning the Award meant a lot to me. It felt like a huge amount of recognition for my work, for engaging with my weakness', and raising my limitations.
The award ceremony also provided the backdrop to meet a lot of people in my industry that I otherwise wouldn't have had the chance to cross paths with. So many people approached me on the night of the Awards and introduced themselves. It was a fantastic event and I recommend anyone who wasn't there to try to attend next year. The coverage afterwards has also reached far and wide with so many friends, family and colleagues reaching out to say congratulations."
Kat Ricketts
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